What does FKQ mean in UNCLASSIFIED

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain in many parts of the body, fatigue, and a wide range of other symptoms.

Patients must have experienced widespread pain for at least 3 months in all 4 quadrants of the body (left and right side above and below waist) to be diagnosed with Fibromyalgia.

Common symptoms include aching muscular pain, fatigue, heightened pain response to pressure, disturbed sleep, morning stiffness, headaches/migraines, cognitive dysfunction (also known as “fibro fog”), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and restless legs syndrome (RLS).

Diagnosis cannot be made by physical examination or laboratory tests alone; therefore medical professionals rely on patient reported symptom history when making a diagnosis. The most common diagnostic tool used is the American College of Rheumatology 1990 criteria which relies on patient reported experience of tender points during physical examination. The Fibromyalgia Knowledge Questionnaire (FKQ) may also be used for diagnosis.

Yes, medical professionals will typically conduct a full physical examination along with blood tests or imaging tests to ensure that an individual does not have any underlying conditions causing their symptoms before making a diagnosis.

Yes, there are many treatment options available to help manage fibromyalgia including medications such as antidepressants and anticonvulsants; lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and stress management; complementary therapies such as yoga and meditation; diet modifications; cognitive behavioral therapy; acupuncture or massage therapy; and trigger point injections. Each patient should discuss treatment options with their physician to find the best fit for them.

Strategies such as maintaining good sleep hygiene using relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises or mindfulness can help manage fibromyalgia symptoms. Additionally lifestyle changes such as healthy eating habits and regular exercise can help reduce fatigue and joint discomfort. Talking to family members or friends about your condition can also provide emotional support in managing everyday tasks.

Yes, it is important to maintain consistent hours of sleep in order to manage fibromyalgia effectively. It is recommended that people get seven to eight hours of quality sleep per night during a regular sleeping schedule. Unpredictable working hours or long shifts can make it difficult to stick with this routine which could lead to an increase in overall fatigue levels.

Spending time around animals has been linked with positive mental health benefits which could lead indirectly lead relief from one's symptoms associated with fibromylagia. Caring for animals provides purposeful activity that require focus on something external rather than internal sensations which often correlate with increased distress levels due to chronic illness.